Revamped college program focused on creating more skilled workers

More than 79 employers attended a job fair earlier this year at the college.
As the need for skilled trade workers continues to grow, St. Clair County Community College is making changes to help meet the demand.

The institution completely revamped its workforce development program, now known as Professional Training Services with one goal in mind: to deliver high-quality instruction and training to employers and employees needing to improve their skills.

How does PTS help?

Professional Training Services can arrange for training in everything from hands-on skills as seen here to earning Microsoft Office certifications.What exactly does SC4 Professional Training Services provide to area businesses? High quality, cost-effective training options and educational services that will enhance desired skills, increase productivity and improve overall workforce quality.

SC4 Dean of Occupational Studies, Tamara Kenny, heads the program and is passionate about this restructuring.

When asked about the major goals that PTS aims to accomplish, she does not pull any punches.

"We are interested in building relationships with companies in the area to see what kind of training needs they might have and once that has been established, we want to provide the highest quality training available."

There are several ways training is coordinated with area employers. One of the main ways is when employers reach out to the PTS office with training needs. The PTS staff then determines the best way to service those needs, Then, training is offered one of three ways--through a non-credit instructor pool, through the college’s credit-based course offerings, or by referral to a third-party vendor.

Working with the Marshall Plan for Talent

Program leaders are exploring the best way to get involved with Michigan's new Marshall Plan for Talent. The plan is a new
partnership between educators, employers, and other stakeholders to transform Michigan’s talent pipeline and redesign the ways in which local and state institutions invest, develop and attract talent in our state. So far, no training agreements have been confirmed, but that could change in the very near future.

Opportunities abound

Department staff is also working on ways to tap into the new Going Pro training fund. This program is offered by the state and
Kenny says it involves bringing together companies interested in offering training in skilled trades.

Funding from this program would create the opportunity to help local companies train, develop and retain employees through SC4's Professional Training Services provide area businesses with high quality cost-effective training options and educational services that will enhance desired skills, increase productivity and improve workforce quality.Michigan Works. Kenny is eager to get this option off the ground.

PTS will also be offering credit-based, fast-track degrees in the skilled trades. This quick training opportunity will help get workers up to speed with manufacturing skills like CNC machining, mechatronics, and welding and get them on the floor sooner.

Job seekers benefit, too

Those looking for gainful employment have options, too. Help is available for job seekers through Employment Services programming. These services are not just for SC4 students, but area residents, as well.

During a recent career fair at the SC4 Fieldhouse, a record 79 companies were on hand with career opportunities for students, alumni, and the community. The job fair offered a chance to meet and connect with employers and find out about local opportunities. The department also participates in community-partnered career fair events as part of employment services offered to the community.

"Between PTS and the Office of Student Services, our customers include employers as well as employed, unemployed and underemployed workers from the greater Port Huron area," Kenny says.

The key to making it all work is strong collaboration from community partners like the Chamber of Commerce, St. Clair County EDA, and Michigan Works and is invaluable to the community, Kenny says.

Assistance is a call away

One thing is certain, between the services offered through Professional Training Services and the Office of Student Services, employment support is available across the board for everyone.

The wide-ranging impact incorporates what SC4 has always been about, a community investment institution.

To find out more about these programs, email Tamara Kenny at tjkenny@sc4.edu or call 810-989-5849.